Vaginal infection test

The BV Test PRO can show vaginal infections. Vaginal infections are a common problem among women of all ages. Although some cases of vaginal infection are associated with symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge, almost 50% of cases of infections do not have such symptoms. The most common causes of vaginitis are bacteria, fungi and parasites (vaginitis can be caused by a combination of such infections).

For whom is the vaginal infection test suitable?

BV Test PRO can be used if the patient has evidence of abnormal vaginal discharge. If no abnormal vaginal discharge symptoms appear, the BV TEST PRO can be used in the following cases: routine monitoring of pregnant women with a history of abortion or premature birth; before the trans-vaginal or abortion procedure, before IVF and before the introduction of an intrauterine contraceptive (IUD)

Bacterial vaginosis can cause complications, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. A vaginal infection resulting from a bacterial and / or parasitic infection causes an increase in the pH of the vaginal discharge and a low buffering capacity of the secretion (aqueous separation).

The detection of bacterial vaginosis may prevent the risk of complications associated with delayed antibiotic treatment or partial treatment with antifungal medications.

Vaginal infections are a common disease in women. The topic is uncomfortable for many women and is rarely discussed. The symptoms can be very uncomfortable and stressful for the patients. As a result, women often suffer in their daily lives and in their sexual life. Symptoms range from complete absence of symptoms to severe itching and pain. With the BV Test Pro vaginal infection test, you can test for infections in a familiar environment.

What are the causes of a vaginal infection?

A vaginal infection occurs when an imbalance of normal vaginal flora prevails. The discharge plays a central role. The genital area is constantly exposed to external environmental stimuli. This allows bacteria to migrate easily and cause inflammation. The healthy vaginal flora prevents infection of the vagina and keeps all bacteria in balance.

What is a healthy vaginal flora?

The healthy vaginal flora consists mainly of lactobacilli (Döderlein bacteria). These produce lactic acid, which creates an acidic environment (pH 4.5) in the vagina. To test if your vaginal acidity is normal, you can use Viola’s vaginal pH self-test.

How can bacteria occur that possibly cause vaginal infections in the healthy vaginal flora?

Possible causes of vaginal infections, such as skin bacteria, intestinal bacteria and, in conjunction with sexual activity, bacteria that cause STDs can also enter the vagina. The acidic environment of the vagina is the most important protective mechanism against these dangerous bacteria. When this environment is intact, dangerous bacteria are rendered harmless. So they can occur in vaginal secretions, but are always in balance with the Döderlein bacteria.

What can influence the healthy vaginal flora?

The acidic environment of the vagina depends on the estrogen concentration of the woman. If the estrogen content is too low, the vaginal flora provides inadequate protection against bacteria and inflammation can occur. A healthy vaginal flora is therefore only present in the period from the first to the last menstruation (menopause). Therefore, more infections occur during menopause when estrogen levels fall. The mucous becomes less, dry and cracked. This can lead to bleeding. To test whether the menopause has already occurred, you can perform the Viola Menopause Test.

Intake of antibiotics may also affect the composition of the vaginal flora. The number of Döderlein bacteria is reduced by the antibiotics and the protective lactic acid is less effective. Especially infections caused by vaginal fungi then are more likely to occur.

Excessive body care such as vaginal douching or intimate sprays can also alter the acidity of the vaginal flora and lead to infections.

How can someone detect a vaginal infection?

The symptoms of a vaginal infection can vary. Often, the infection also goes without symptoms, so that the exact diagnosis is not always easy.

The outer vaginal area can be red and irritated. You can experience severe itching with burning symptoms, especially before menstruation (premenstrual). An infection can also cause pain during intercourse or urination. The discharge can change the color (greenish) or consistency or even take on an unpleasant odor.

Which diseases are responsible for a vaginal infection?

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is the leading cause of vaginal infections. There is a disturbed colonisation of the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis in the vaginal flora.

The symptoms are relatively mild with a gray-white discharge that typically has a fishy odor. There is usually no itching or redness.

Treatment is by taking the antibiotic metronidazole. Another treatment is the administration of lactic acid bacteria in the vagina using a suppository. This ensures the rebuilding of a natural fight against harmful bacteria.

vaginal yeast infection

The vaginal fungus is the second leading cause of vaginal infections. The triggers are yeasts, usually of the type Candida albicans. Candida albicans is found in the natural flora of the skin, mucous membranes and intestinal flora and usually causes no infection.

Only when changes in the immune system occur can the yeast cause disease. You are at increased risk if you have certain conditions such as diabetes mellitus (diabetes), treatment with an antibiotic or a weakened immune system caused by e.g. Chemotherapy, radiation, pregnancy or psychosocial stress.

The symptoms of a vaginal fungus are a severe to unbearable itch. The secretion is white and friable. In case of advanced disease, a burning sensation may occur, which is increased premenstrual (before menstruation). It can also be painful during urination and sexual intercourse.

The vaginal fungus is treated with topical antifungal creams or suppositories containing the active ingredient Cl.